Granulomatosis con poliangeítis. A propósito de un caso

La granulomatosis con poliangeítis es una vasculitis sistémica, necrosante y granulomatosa que afecta el tracto respiratorio superior e inferior y los riñones. Se presenta el caso de una paciente blanca, de 59 años de edad, hipertensa y fumadora inveterada, que ingresó por presentar síntomas constitucionales, orinas turbias y hemáticas, así como creatininemia elevada con valor previo normal. Con impresión diagnóstica inicial de infección del tracto urinario se indica antibioticoterapia. Después del tercer día de iniciado el tratamiento, mejoraron los síntomas constitucionales y, de forma progresiva, comenzó con manifestaciones multiorgánicas (renal, respiratoria, cutánea y musculoesquelética) sugestivas de vasculitis sistémica. Como elementos significativos, en exámenes complementarios se detectaron azoados y reactantes de fase aguda aumentados, sedimento urinario activo, imagen nodular en vértice pulmonar derecho y microhemorragias multifocales en ambos campos pulmonares, detectados mediante tomografía computarizada y c-ANCA altamente positivo. Se indicó tratamiento inmunosupresor y citotóxico potente, obteniéndose control inicial de las manifestaciones graves de la enfermedad. Evolutivamente desarrolló complicaciones propias de la entidad y secundarias al tratamiento médico, que la hicieron tributaria de terapia de sustitución renal, falleciendo a los dos años de recibir hemodiálisis iterada. El cuadro clínico, unido a los estudios imagenológicos e inmunológicos (c-ANCA), fueron elementos claves para realizar el diagnóstico.

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis is a systemic, necrotizing, granulomatous vasculitis that affects the upper and lower respiratory tract and kidneys. The case of a 59-year-old white female patient, who is hypertensive and inveterate smoker, is presented; she was admitted for presenting constitutional symptoms, turbid and bloody urine, as well as elevated creatininemia with a normal previous value. With the initial diagnostic impression of urinary tract infection, antibiotic therapy was indicated. After the third day of starting treatment the constitutional symptoms improved, and progressively began with multiorgan manifestations (renal, respiratory, skin and musculoskeletal) suggestive of systemic vasculitis. As significant elements, complementary examinations detected increased nitrogen and acute phase reactants, active urinary sediment, nodular image in the right lung apex and multifocal microhemorrhages in both lung fields through computed tomography, and highly positive c-ANCA. Potent immunosuppressive and cytotoxic treatment was indicated, obtaining initial control of severe manifestations of the disease. Evolutionarily she developed complications specific to the entity and secondary to medical treatment which made her subject to renal replacement therapy, dying two years after receiving iterated hemodialysis. The clinical characteristics, together with the imaging and immunological studies (c-ANCA) were key elements to make the diagnosis.

Criterios broncoscópicos, laboratoriales y anatomopatológicos de enfermedad de la vía aérea en pacientes diagnosticados con granulomatosis con poliangitis / Bronchoscopic, laboratory and anatomopathological criteria for airway disease in patients diagnosed with granulomatosis with polyangiitis

Introducción: los pacientes con granulomatosis con poliangitis (GPA) pueden presentar compromiso de la vía aérea superior (VAS) o inferior (VAI). Objetivos: describimos las manifestaciones endoscópicas de las vías respiratorias, los hallazgos histológicos y los anticuerpos anticitoplasma de neutrófilos (ANCA) en un grupo de pacientes con GPA. Métodos: estudio retrospectivo de historias clínicas de pacientes con GPA sometidos a broncoscopia entre 2012 y 2019. Se analizaron hallazgos de la vía aérea, biopsias y ANCA. Resultados: se incluyeron 40 pacientes, con una edad media de 46,92±17,61 años, predominantemente del sexo femenino (67,5%). Se observó afectación de la vía aérea en el 90% (n=36). El C-ANCA fue reactivo en el 63,9%, P-ANCA en el 25%, ANCA doblemente reactivo en el 8,33% y no reactivo en el 20%. Los hallazgos comunes en la vía aérea superior (VS) fueron sinusitis crónica (41,7%), destrucción del tabique nasal (16,7%); y en la vía aérea inferior (AI): estenosis traqueobronquial (38,9%), traqueobronquitis (25%). Los hallazgos más frecuentes de las biopsias broncoscópicas fueron proceso inflamatorio polimorfonuclear (61,9%) y necrosis geográfica (47,6%). Conclusión: la vía aérea está comprometida hasta en un 90% de los pacientes con GPA. ANCA no reactivos no descartan esta posibilidad. La sinusitis crónica y los procesos fibroestenóticos traqueobronquiales fueron los hallazgos endoscópicos más comunes. La vasculitis en biopsias se encontró en una minoría de casos.

Introduction: patients with granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) may present upper airway (UA) and lower airway (LA) involvement. Objectives: we describe the endoscopic manifestations of the airways, histological findings from biopsied tissue and antineutrophilic cytoplasm antibody (ANCA) in a group of patients with GPA. Methods: retrospective study of medical records of patients with GPA undergoing bronchoscopy between 2012 and 2019. Airway findings, results of biopsies performed and ANCA results were analyzed. Results: 40 patients were included, with a mean age of 46.92±17.61 years and predominantly female (67.5%). Airway involvement was observed in 90% (n=36). The C-ANCA was reactive in 63.9%, P-ANCA in 25%, doubly reactive ANCA in 8.33% and non-reactive in 20%. The findings in upper airway (UA) were: chronic sinusitis (41.7%), destruction of the nasal septum (16.7%); and in lower airway (LA) were: tracheobronchial stenosis (38.9%) and tracheobronchitis (25%). The pathological findings most common of bronchoscopic biopsies were: polymorphonuclear inflammatory process (61.9%) and geographic necrosis (47.6%). Conclusion: the airway is involved in up to 90% of patients with GPA. Non-reactive ANCA does not rule out this possibility. Chronic sinusitis and tracheobronchial fibrostenotic processes were the most common endoscopic findings. Vasculitis in biopsies was found in a minority of cases.

Manifestaciones periodontales de la Granulomatosis de Wegener: Reporte de un caso clínico

La granulomatosis de Wegener o granulomatosis con Poliangitis (GPA) es una enfermedad caracterizada por inflamación y necrosis de las paredes de los vasos sanguíneos. Es de etiología desconocida, baja prevalencia y alta agresividad. Esta enfermedad puede comprometer los tejidos bucales causando agrandamiento e inflamación del tejido gingival. Se reporta el caso de un paciente de género masculino que manifiesta aumento de volumen de la encía e inflamación asociado al diagnóstico de granulomatosis de Wegener. La lesión fue eliminada quirúrgicamente y el diagnóstico se logró al combinar los hallazgos serológicos del test ANCA, manifestaciones periodontales y análisis histopatológico. El paciente fue tratado con metotrexato y corticoesteroides y no presenta recidiva de la lesión luego de 2 años de control. En este artículo se analizan las manifestaciones periodontales asociadas a la GPA resaltando la importancia de un adecuado diagnóstico de lesiones periodontales caracterizadas por agradamiento gingival e inflamación.

Wegener's granulomatosis or granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is a disease characterized by inflammation and necrosis of the blood vessel walls. It is of unknown etiology, low prevalence and high degree of aggressiveness. This disease can compromise the oral tissues, causing enlargement and inflammation of the gingival tissues. The case of a male patient who presented rapidly growing gingival tissue enlargement and inflammatory characteristics associated with the diagnosis of Wegener's granulomatosis is reported. The lesion was removed surgically and the diagnosis was achieved by combining the serological findings of the ANCA test, periodontal manifestations and histopathological analysis of the lesion. The patient was treated with methotrexate and corticosteroids and the lesion did not reappear after 2 years of control. In this article, the periodontal manifestations associated with GPA are analyzed, highlighting the importance of an adequate diagnosis of periodontal lesions characterized by gingival enlargement and inflammation.

Clinical profile and management of granulomatosis with polyangiitis–associated scleritis from a tertiary care hospital in South India

Purpose: To describe the clinical features and management of patients with scleritis associated with granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) at a tertiary eye care center in South India. Methods: The clinical profile and management of patients presenting to a tertiary eye care center in South India with scleritis secondary to GPA from 2003 to 2021 were analyzed retrospectively. Scleritis was classified into anterior diffuse, nodular, and necrotizing scleritis with inflammation according to Watson and Hayreh’s classification. Demographic characteristics, clinical features, anti?neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) positivity, treatment response, ocular complications, and status at the last follow?up were analyzed. Statistical analysis of data was performed using Microsoft Excel 2019. Results: Nineteen eyes of 17 patients (15 cytoplasmic staining ANCA [c?ANCA], two p?ANCA positive) were included. Fifteen eyes had necrotizing scleritis, two had diffuse anterior scleritis, and two had nodular scleritis. Remission was induced using a combination of steroids and cyclophosphamide or rituximab. Maintenance therapy was instituted using tapering steroids and immunosuppressants like cyclophosphamide, mycophenolate mofetil, methotrexate, or rituximab. Three eyes required a scleral patch graft. Fourteen patients had good anatomical and visual outcomes, and three were lost to follow?up. Conclusion: GPA is a rare disease, while it is the most common ANCA?associated vasculitis with scleritis. As scleritis may be the presenting sign of the disease, ophthalmologists must be aware of the various features suggestive of GPA. GPA?associated scleritis can have a good prognosis when diagnosed promptly and managed aggressively in the acute stage, and remission is maintained with adequate systemic immunosuppression.

Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis Presenting as a Renal Mass: A Scarce Case Report with a Review of the Literature

Wegener granulomatosis (WG) now known as granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is an uncommon autoimmune disorder of undivulged etiology affecting the respiratory tract including paranasal sinuses, nasal cavity, lungs, and kidneys predominantly. GPA presenting as a solitary renal mass is rarely seen. We present a case report of a 27-year-old female presenting with a right renal mass along with pain, low-grade fever, and arthralgia. Computed tomography scan of the abdomen revealed a hypodense low attenuated renal mass with indistinct margins. Ultrasound-guided biopsy revealed features typical of GPA. She was started on oral steroids (prednisolone 40?mg) and azathioprine. She developed pain, vomiting, and diarrhea after starting treatment with azathioprine. Azathioprine was stopped and rituximab 1?g weekly was started for 4 weeks followed by 500?mg 6 monthly injections. She got symptomatic relief at 4 weeks with a diminution of renal mass at 6 months follow-up. We report this rare entity of WG presenting as renal mass. Suspecting and diagnosing renal mass as a part of GPA prevented us from undertaking unnecessary surgical treatment in this patient. Medical treatment with steroids and rituximab is effective in inducing remission and maintenance.

Hidronefrosis como manifestación inusual y distractora en el diagnóstico de una vasculitis ANCA positiva. A propósito de un caso / Hydronephrosis as an unusual and distracting manifestation in the diagnosis of ANCA-positive vasculitis. About a case

La nefropatía obstructiva se considera una manifestación inusual en las vasculitis ANCA. Se presenta el caso de un masculino de 38 años, con granulomatosis con poliangitis e hidronefrosis unilateral, y revisión de la literatura. Masculino de 38 años, sano, quien consulta por cuadro subagudo de odinofagia, síntomas constitucionales y lesión renal aguda anúrica. Inicialmente con hallazgo de hidronefrosis izquierda, manejado como nefropatía obstructiva, que eventualmente desarrolla hemorragia alveolar difusa, distrés respiratorio y fallece debido a un síndrome de distrés respiratorio agudo severo refractario asociado a su granulomatosis con poliangitis. La nefropatía obstructiva es una manifestación inusual de las vasculitis ANCA asociadas. Es importante la sospecha diagnóstica en estos cuadros multisistémicos para no dilatar el tratamiento inmunosupresor conjunto con el resto de las terapias requeridas.

Obstructive nephropathy is considered an unusual presentation in ANCA-associated vasculitis. The following case describes a 38-year-old male with granulomatosis with polyangiitis and unilateral hydronephrosis, as well as a literature review. A 38-year-old male with an unremarkable medical background presents with a 3-week history of odynophagia, constitutional symptoms and anuric kidney injury. Initially managed as an obstructive nephropathy due to a left hydronephrosis finding, the patient eventually develops a diffuse alveolar hemorrhage, acute respiratory distress and perishes due to granulomatosis with polyangiitis. Obstructive nephropathy is an unusual manifestation of ANCA-associated vasculitis. Diagnostic suspicion is important in these multisystem pictures so as not to delay immunosuppressive treatment together with the rest of the required therapies.

A case of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies-associated vasculitis with ocular masses as the main manifestation / 中华肾脏病杂志

A case of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) with ocular masses as the main manifestation was reported. The patient was a middle-aged female, the initial symptom was eye swelling, pulmonary nodules were found before eye surgery, and further examination revealed proteinuria, hematuria and renal insufficiency. Renal pathology showed ANCA-associated glomerulonephritis. The final diagnosis was eye, kidney and lung lesions caused by AAV. Treatment with glucocorticoids and cyclophosphamide resulted in improvement in eye, kidney, and pulmonary lesions. Atypical clinical manifestations of AAV may lead to delayed diagnosis, and attention should be paid to the exclusion of AAV for ocular masses of unknown cause.

Small vessel vasculitis, different renal outcomes in pediatric patients. Case reports

Vasculitis mainly affects the walls of the blood vessels, and is an uncommon disease in the pediatric population. In general, they are classified according to the EULAR / PreS consensus in children and in adults according to the Chapel-Hill consensus conference. ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) is part of small-vessel disease and is represented by granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), microscopic polyangiitis (MPA), and others. The representative renal histopathological findings are focal necrotizing glomerulonephritis with crescents, variable interstitial inflammation, absence of immune complexes, or small deposits of immunoglobulins. Clinically, AAV can manifest with hematuria, proteinuria, high blood pressure, and/or rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis. GPA can severely affect the kidney in 75% of cases. In MPA, renal involvement (75-90%) can be rapid and severe with the possibility of requiring renal replacement therapy in more than half of the patients. Furthermore, up to 25% of patients may have high blood pressure, and the mortality at one year can be up to 85%. In EGPA the renal involvement is usually mild. Three pediatric cases of AAV with different renal outcomes are presented, including the need for renal replacement therapy with the recovery of renal function, kidney transplantation, and death, followed in a fourth level of care institution in Colombia.

Las vasculitis, patologías cuyo hallazgo principal es la afectación de las paredes de los vasos sanguíneos, se presentan de forma infrecuente en la población pediátrica. En general, en niños se clasifican de acuerdo con el consenso de la EULAR/PReS, y en adultos, según la Conferencia de Consenso de Chapel-Hill. Las vasculitis asociadas con ANCA (VAA) hacen parte de las vasculitis de pequeños vasos y están representadas por la granulomatosis con poliangeítis (GPA), la granulomatosis eosinofílica con poliangeítis (EGPA) y la poliangeítis microscópica (PAM), entre otras. A nivel renal, los hallazgos histopatológicos representativos son la glomerulonefritis focal necrotizante con media luna, inflamación intersticial variable, ausencia de complejos inmunes o pequeños depósitos de inmunoglobulinas. Clínicamente, las VAA pueden manifestarse con hematuria, proteinuria, hipertensión arterial o glomerulonefritis rápidamente progresiva. La GPA puede afectar de forma severa el riñón en el 75% de los casos, mientras que, en la PAM, el compromiso renal (75-90%) puede ser rápido y severo con posibilidad de requerir terapia de reemplazo renal en más de la mitad de los pacientes. Además, hasta el 25% de los casos puede tener hipertensión arterial, con una mortalidad a un ario de 85%. En la EGPA, el compromiso renal suele ser leve. Se presentan 3 casos pediátricos de VAA con diferentes desenlaces renales, que incluyen necesidad de terapia de reemplazo renal con recuperación de función renal, trasplante renal y muerte, seguidas en una institución de IV nivel del suroccidente colombiano.

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis: A case report of early systemic fulminant presentation

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis is a systemic vasculitis that affects medium and small vessels, with high expression of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibody. A case is pre sented on a patient with an initial compromise of the lower airway, who did not respond to management, required intensive care unit management, and died due to severe diffuse alveolar hemorrhage. His definitive diagnosis was established with a clinical autopsy. Gran-ulomatosis with polyangiitis is a disease with different ways of presentation, and can have fatal outcomes if it is not diagnosed early.

La granulomatosis con poliangeítis es un tipo de vasculitis que afecta a vasos de mediano y pequeño calibre de manera sistémica, con una alta expresión de anticuerpos contra el citoplasma del neutrófilo. Se presenta el caso de un paciente con un compromiso inicial de la vía área inferior, que no respondió al tratamiento y requirió manejo en unidad de cuidados intensivos. Finalmente, falleció por una hemorragia alveolar difusa severa. Su diagnóstico definitivo se estableció con una autopsia clínica. La granulomatosis con poliangeítis tiene diferentes formas de presentación y puede tener desenlaces fatales si no se diagnostica a tiempo.

Fístula orbitonasal, un desafío terapéutico frente a una manifestación infrecuente en la granulomatosis con poliangitis / Orbito-nasal fistula, a therapeutic challenge against an infrequent manifestation in granulomatosis with polyangiitis

La granulomatosis con poliangitis (GPA) es una condición clínico-patológica que cursa con inflamación granulomatosa del tracto respiratorio superior e inferior, glomerulonefritis necrotizante focal y vasculitis necrotizante de vasos de pequeño y mediano tamaño (capilares, vénulas, arteriolas y arterias). La afectación de la GPA orbitaria oscila entre el 7 y el 45%. En ocasiones, la glándula lagrimal puede estar afectada de forma aislada y ser la manifestación inicial de la enfermedad. Presentamos el caso de una paciente con GPA y fístula nasolagrimal.

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is a clinical-pathological condition that presents with granulomatous inflammation of the upper and lower respiratory tract, focal necrotizing glomerulonephritis and necrotizing vasculitis of small and medium-sized vessels (capillaries, venules, arterioles and arteries). Orbital GPA involvement ranging from 7-45%. The lacrimal gland can occasionally be affected in isolation and be the initial manifestation of the disease. We present the case of a patient with GPA and nasolacrimal fistula.

Compromiso pulmonar en vasculitis asociadas a anticuerpos anticitoplasma de neutrófilos / Pulmonary manifestations of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody associated vasculitis

This article reviews the pulmonary manifestations of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody associated vasculitis (AAV). Its frequency in the different phenotypes of the disease, clinical manifestations and updated therapeutic recommendations are reviewed, aiming to alert the medical community about the existence of these diseases. We pretend to stimulate a timely suspicion, diagnostic precision, and the implementation of effective therapies, to reduce the eventual sequelae derived from a diagnostic omission or an inappropriate treatment for the different clinical scenarios in which these diseases appear.

A Case of Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting for a Patient with Eosinophilic Granulomatosis and Polyangiitis / 日本心臓血管外科学会雑誌

We present herein the case of a 45-year-old man with a coronary artery aneurysm (diameter 19 mm) in the proximal part of the left anterior descending branch associated with eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA). As coronary angiography showed #6 : 100% and #12-2 : 90%, and Tc-99 m myocardial scintigraphy showed exertional ischemia in the anterior septum, revascularization was considered to be indicated. Prednisolone and mepolizumab were administered preoperatively to suppress the activity of vasculitis due to eosinophilia, and surgery was performed when the eosinophil count normalized. The patient underwent off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (LITA-LAD, SVG-OM2). The patient was discharged, and the postoperative course was uneventful. In coronary artery bypass grafting for EGPA, eosinophils may infiltrate the internal thoracic artery and result in vasculitis, which may affect the patency rate. Perioperative management of vasculitis may thus be important.

A Case of Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis Mimicking Cutaneous Tuberculosis and Tuberculous Lymphadenitis

Summary@#Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), or Churg-Strauss Syndrome (CSS) is a rare granulomatous necrotizing vasculitic disease characterized by the presence of asthma, sinusitis, and hypereosinophilia. We describe a patient who was initially diagnosed with tuberculous lymphadenitis and later diagnosed with EGPA.

Granulomatose de Wegener: reabilitação oral com prótese bucomaxilofacial / Wegener's granulomatosis: oral rehabilitation with maxillofacial prosthesis / Granulomatosis de Wegener: rehabilitación oral con prótesis bucomaxilofacial

Introdução: A granulomatose de Wegener é uma doença autoimune rara que ocorre através de mediadores imunológicos. Sua etiologia permanece desconhecida. No entanto, sabe-se que é caracterizada principalmente pela inflamação dos vasos sanguíneos que acometem preferencialmente as vias aéreas superiores, inferiores e os rins. A doença apresenta altas taxas de morbidade e mortalidade quando não tratada, seu principal tratamento é através do uso de corticoides e imunossupressores. Objetivo: realizar um relato de caso de Granulomatose de Wegener tratando a comunicação orosinusal através de prótese bucomaxilofacial e uma discussão baseada na literatura recente. Relato de caso: paciente do gênero masculino, 40 anos de idade, leucoderma, encaminhado ao serviço de Bucomaxilofacial do Hospital Universitário da Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (HU-UFSC) queixando-se de comunicação oronasal em região de palato. Foi tratado com prótese BMF obturadora, o que devolveu ao paciente a capacidade de fonação, deglutição e convívio social. Conclusão: o tratamento com a prótese BMF reestabelece o velamento velofaríngeo, corrige hipernasalidade, melhora a deglutição e dá conforto psicológico ao paciente com estabilidade protética funcional... (AU)

Introduction: Wegeners' Granulomatulosis is a rare autoimmune disease that acts through immunologic mediators. It's etymology remains unknown. However, it is known that it's mainly characterized by the inflammation of blood vessels that affect, by preference, upper and lower airways, as well as kidneys. The disease presents high rates of morbidity and mortality when not treated, and it's main treatments are corticoids and immunosuppressants. Objective: Perform a Wegener's Granulomatulosis case report treating orosinusal communication through the use of a bucomaxilofacial prosthesis and a discussion based on current literature. Case report: Male patient, 40 years of age, leucoderma, brought to the Bucomaxilofacial department of Federal University of Santa Catarina (HU UFSC) with complaints regarding oronasal communication in the palate region. The patient was treated with a BMF prosthetics, which has allowed the patient to resume normal social activities, as well as returning phonation and deglutition. Conclusion: Treatment with a BMF prosthetics reestablishes velopharyngeal veiling, assists in the correction of nasal voice, improves deglutition and offers the patient psychological comfort with functional prosthetic stability... (AU)

Introducción: la granulomatosis de Wegener es una enfermedad autoinmune rara que se presenta a través de mediadores inmunológicos. Su etiologia permanece desconocida. Sin embargo, se sabe que se caracteriza principalmente por la inflamación de los vasos sanguíneos que afectan preferentemente las vías respiratorias superiores e inferiores y los riñones. La enfermedad tiene altas tasas de morbilidad y mortalidad cuando no se trata, su principal tratamiento es mediante el uso de corticosteroides e inmunosupresores. Objetivo: realizar un reporte de caso de Granulomatosis de Wegener en el tratamiento de la comunicación orosinusal mediante prótesis maxilofacial y una discusión basada en la literatura reciente. Caso clínico: paciente de sexo masculino, 40 años, leucoderma, remitido al Servicio Maxilofacial del Hospital Universitario de la Universidad Federal de Santa Catarina (HU-UFSC) por comunicación oronasal en región paladar. Fue tratado con una prótesis obturatriz de BMF, que le devolvió al paciente la capacidad de hablar, tragar y socializar. Conclusión: el tratamiento con la prótesis BMF restablece el velo velofaríngeo, corrige la hipernasalidad, mejora la deglución y proporciona confort psicológico al paciente con estabilidad protésica funcional... (AU)

Mepolizumab as a steroid-sparing treatment option in a patient with eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis / Mepolizumabe como terapêutica poupadora de esteroides num paciente com granulomatose eosinofílica com poliangiite

Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) is a multisystem disorder characterized by asthma, peripheral blood eosinophilia, and signs of vasculitis. Glucocorticoids are considered the cornerstone of treatment, but most patients remain steroid-dependent and carry a significant burden of adverse effects. We report a case of a patient with steroid-dependent EGPA successfully treated with mepolizumab. A 36-year-old man presented with persistent rhinitis, dyspnea, wheezing, and dry cough poorly controlled with inhaled therapy. Eosinophilia in peripheral blood and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was seen. Histological findings from nasal mucosa revealed eosinophilic microabscesses and vasculitis without granulomas compatible with EGPA diagnosis. After daily oral prednisolone (PSL) was started, symptoms and eosinophilia improved, but adverse effects emerged. Attempts at tapering off PSL resulted in worsening of symptoms. He started mepolizumab 300 mg monthly, with clinical improvement and sustained disease remission, which allowed reducing the need for PSL. We present a very disabling steroiddependent EGPA. Mepolizumab was able to taper off PSL while maintaining symptomatic control.

Granulomatose eosinofílica com poliangiite (EGPA) é uma doença multissistêmica caracterizada por asma, eosinofilia no sangue periférico e sinais de vasculite. Os corticoides são considerados a base do tratamento, no entanto, a maioria dos pacientes permanece dependente deste tratamento com os seus efeitos adversos associados. Relatamos o caso de um paciente com granulomatose eosinofílica dependente de esteroides com poliangiite (EGPA) tratado com sucesso com mepolizumabe. Um homem de 36 anos apresentou rinite persistente, dispneia, sibilos e tosse seca mal controlada com terapia inalada. Observou-se eosinofilia no sangue periférico e no lavado broncoalveolar. Os achados histológicos da mucosa nasal revelaram microabscessos eosinofílicos e vasculite sem granulomas compatíveis com o diagnóstico de EGPA. Após o início da prednisolona oral diária (PSL), os sintomas e a eosinofilia melhoraram, mas surgiram efeitos adversos. As tentativas de redução gradual da PSL resultaram no agravamento dos sintomas. Iniciou mepolizumabe 300 mg mensalmente, com melhora clínica e remissão sustentada da doença, o que permitiu reduzir a necessidade de PSL. Apresentamos um EGPA dependente de esteroides muito incapacitante. O mepolizumab foi capaz de diminuir o PSL mantendo o controle sintomático sustentado.

Pulmonary sarcoidosis with arterial involvement

Necrotizing sarcoid granulomatosis (NSG) is a rare and under-recognized cause of granulomatous disease, described as a variant of typical nodular sarcoidosis. It can be asymptomatic when the patient has a single pulmonary nodule or may be accompanied by cough, fever, and dyspnea, or even symptoms due to the involvement of other organs such as the eyes, liver, and central nervous system. The histopathological analysis is essential for the differential diagnosis of other infectious and non-infectious causes of granuloma and to determine the appropriate treatment. NSG is characterized by the presence of a granuloma with extensive coagulative necrosis associated with the occurrence of vasculitis. We present the case of a patient diagnosed with NSG who had an unusual outcome with recurrent pulmonary thromboembolisms followed by hemodynamic instability and death.

Hypertrophic pachymeningitis in a patient with ANCA negative granulomatosis with polyangiitis: A case report / Paquimeningitis hipertrófica en un paciente con granulomatosis con poliangeítis ANCA negativo: reporte de un caso

ABSTRACT Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is a vasculitic disease with an infrequent involvement of the central nervous system. This can lead, in rare cases, to hypertrophic pachymeningitis (HP), which is characterized by inflammation and fibrosis that cause a thickening of dura mater. At present, it is crucial to consider GPA in the differential diagnosis of elderly patients with intracranial hypertension. The case is presented of a 60-year-old male with progressive severe headache, vomiting, and wasting syndrome. Physical examination showed pallor, weight loss, and unilateral papilloedema. A gadolinium-enhanced brain MRI scan showed sinusitis, chronic otomastoiditis, and hypertrophic pachymeningitis. Finally, a meningeal biopsy concluded a necrotising granulomatous vasculitis compatible with GPA. However, PR3- and MPO-ANCA were negative. After corticosteroid therapy was initiated, the patient had a favorable outcome during his hospital stay.

RESUMEN La granulomatosis con poliangeítis (GPA) compromete excepcionalmente el sistema nervioso central, conllevando en raras ocasiones a una paquimeningitis hipertrófica (PH), caracterizada por inflamación y fibrosis, que originan un engrosamiento de la duramadre. Actualmente, su consideración es crucial en el diagnóstico diferencial de pacientes ancianos con hipertensión endocraneana. Presentamos el caso de un adulto de 60 anos con cefalea severa progresiva, vómitos, papiledema unilateral y síndrome consuntivo en donde la resonancia magnética cerebral contrastada con gadolinio muestra sinusitis, otomastoiditis y PH. Finalmente, la biopsia de meninges reveló vasculitis granulomatosa necrosante de pequenos y medianos vasos compatible con GPA. Empero, PR3- y MPO-ANCA resultaron negativos. Se inició terapia con corticoides, presentando una evolución clínica favorable durante su hospitalización.

A clinical approach to hypertrophic pachymeningitis / Abordagem diagnóstica para paquimeningite hipertrófica

ABSTRACT Importance: Hypertrophic pachymeningitis (HP) is a non-usual manifestation of rheumatologic, infectious, and neoplastic diseases. Etiological diagnosis is a challenge, but when made promptly it creates a window of opportunity for treatment, with the possibility of a total reversal of symptoms. Observations: HP is an inflammatory process of the dura mater that can occur as a manifestation of sarcoidosis, granulomatosis with polyangiitis, and IgG4-related disease. The HP case evaluation is extensive and includes central nervous system imaging, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, serology, rheumatologic tests, and systemic survey for other manifestations sites. After systemic investigation, meningeal biopsy might be necessary. Etiology guides HP treatment, and autoimmune disorders are treated with corticosteroids alone or associated with an immunosuppressor. Conclusion: HP is a manifestation of several diseases, and a precise etiological diagnosis is crucial because of the difference among treatments. An extensive investigation of patients with HP helps early diagnosis and correct treatment.

RESUMO Importância: Paquimeningite hipertrófica (PH) é uma manifestação não usual de doenças reumatológicas, infecciosas e neoplásicas. O diagnóstico etiológico por vezes é um desafio, entretanto quando realizado em tempo cria uma janela de tratamento com a possibilidade de reversão total dos sintomas. Observações: A PH é um processo inflamatório da dura-máter que pode ocorrer como manifestação da sarcoidose, granulomatose com poliangeíte e doença relacionada à IgG4. A avaliação dos casos de PH é extensa e inclui imagem do sistema nervoso central, análise de líquor, sorologias, provas reumatológicas e rastreio sistêmico para doença em outros sítios. Por vezes, após toda a investigação sistêmica, a biópsia de meninge é necessária. A etiologia orienta o tratamento da HP, sendo que em doenças autoimunes adota-se o uso de corticosteroides isolados ou associados a um imunossupressor. Conclusão e Relevância: A PH é uma manifestação de várias doenças, e seu diagnóstico etiológico preciso é fundamental, visto a diferença entre os possíveis tratamentos. Uma investigação ampla nos casos de PH ajuda no diagnóstico precoce e tratamento adequado.

Granulomatosis eosinofílica con poliangeitis: presentación inusual de una enfermedad rara en la edad pediátrica / Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis: unusual presentation of a rare disease in pediatric age

La granulomatosis eosinofílica con poliangitis (GEPA), es un trastorno poco frecuente en la edad pediátrica, representando menos de un 2% de las vasculitis en pediatría. Su etiología es desconocida y de difícil diagnóstico debido a la variabilidad en su cuadro clínico. Los pacientes presentan como rasgo característico antecedentes de asma, rinitis alérgica y eosinofilia en sangre periférica. A nivel microscópico es una vasculitis necrosante que afecta a vasos de pequeño a mediano calibre, presencia de granulomas y eosinofilia extravascular. La GEPA es una vasculitis asociada a la presencia de anticuerpos anticitoplasma de neutrófilo (ANCA), su positividad en niños sólo se encuentran en menos del 40% de los casos. Presentamos el caso de una escolar de 8 años con cuadros respiratorios recurrentes asociados a eosinofilia superior al 10%, manifestaciones cutáneas importantes, esofagitis eosinofílica y polineuropatía, finalmente diagnosticado con GEPA-ANCA-PR3 (ANCA específico para proteinasa 3).

Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) is a rare disorder in pediatric age, accounting for less than 2% of vasculitis in pediatrics. Its etiology is unknown and difficult to diagnose due to the variability in its clinical picture. Patients have a history of asthma, allergic rhinitis and eosinophilia in peripheral blood as a characteristic feature. Microscopically, necrotizing vasculitis that affects small to medium-caliber vessels, the presence of granulomas and extravascular eosinophilia. GEPA is a vasculitis associated with the presence of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA), its positivity in children is only found in less than 40% of cases. We present the case of an 8-year-old schoolgirl with recurrent respiratory symptoms associated with eosinophilia greater than 10%, important skin manifestations, eosinophilic esophagitis and polyneuropathy, finally diagnosed with GEPA-ANCA-PR3 (specific ANCA for proteinase 3).

Lesiones destructivas de la línea media: diagnóstico diferencial con Vasculitis Asociada a ANCA / Destructive lesions of midline: differential diagnosis with ANCA-associated Vasculitis

Presentamos los casos clínicos de tres pacientes adultos jóvenes de origen boliviano, que fueron hospitalizados en salas de clínica médica de un hospital de tercer nivel por manifestaciones de la vía aérea superior y lesiones de las estructuras de la línea media. Reumatología evaluó la posibilidad del diagnóstico de Vasculitis asociada a ANCA, la cual es un diagnóstico diferencial de la entidad conocida como "lesión destructiva de la línea media". En todos los casos se arribó al diagnóstico definitivo de Linfoma T luego de un exhaustivo estudio histopatológico.

We present clinical cases of three Bolivian young adults who were hospitalized in the medical clinic rooms of a third level hospital for upper airway manifestation and lesions of the midline structures. Rheumatology service evaluated the diagnosis of ANCA associated Vasculitis, which is a differential diagnosis of the entity known as midline destructive lesion. In all cases, the final diagnosis of T lymphoma was reached after an exhaustive histopathological study.